Most popular VPN services allow users to use multiple devices at the same time. NordVPN is no different — you can access their VPN service on both your PC and smartphone. However, there are some limitations you should be aware of.
A NordVPN account supports a maximum of six devices. The NordVPN app is available for use on laptop, smartphone, or tablet. Supported operating systems include Windows, MacOS, Android, iOS, and Linux. Users can access NordVPN on multiple devices at the same time using different VPN servers or protocols.
Please note that when you’re using a single NordVPN account, it is not possible to use the same VPN server multiple times, except if different devices use different VPN protocols. Users should make sure they don’t ‘block’ each other’s accounts from connecting, by choosing another VPN server.
How To Connect Multiple Devices To NordVPN
If more than one user from the same household (and Wi-Fi) connects to the same NordVPN server, this could cause a connectivity problem. To avoid this issue, different users should connect with a different VPN protocol. This minimizes interference with other devices.
For example, a PC could be on the OpenVPN TCP protocol, while an iPhone could be using NordVPN via the NordLynx protocol. Users can access NordVPN servers through a total of five different VPN protocols:
- HTTP Proxy
- SOCKS5
- NordLynx
- OpenVPN TCP
- OpenVPN UDP
To avoid connectivity or speed problems with NordVPN, users should set up their devices in a way that interference is not possible. Choosing different default VPN protocols is the easiest solution to this problem.
Let me share a little secret with you. If you don’t want to deal with VPN protocols at all, a clever workaround is available. To fix any interference between devices, simply connect the NordVPN proxy to your router. This will increase your maximum user limit spectacularly!
Increase Maximum Number Of NordVPN Devices
To increase the maximum device limit on your NordVPN account, users can set up their router with NordVPN. Since a router will only use a single device slot on a NordVPN account, all devices that access Wi-Fi through the router can access the available VPN servers.
Please note that a new device does not have to download and install the NordVPN app while using a VPN router. However, having the application installed will give users access to changing their location instantly. This is helpful when accessing Netflix or news websites with region-specific or region-locked content.
To install a VPN on a router for limitless device access, follow the steps below:
- Make sure your router supports NordVPN by checking the excluded routers here
- Log into your router by entering your router’s IP address into your web browser
- Configure your router with the VPN functionality, or add the VPN manually
To instantly secure all your smart home devices with a VPN, the general process is the same for every router. However, specific router types use different methods to set up a VPN connection. The video below will teach you the ins and outs of the process:
Is Sharing My VPN With My Family Allowed?
NordVPN wouldn’t teach users how to share a VPN on multiple devices if they didn’t allow it. Setting up a single account for the whole household is absolutely allowed under the NordVPN terms of service.
If you’re using a limited number of devices (six or less), you don’t necessarily need to set up your router for VPN access. However, if you’re using a lot of smart devices at the same time, it can be worthwhile to invest some time and effort into setting it up. The main benefits include:
- Uninterrupted privacy and security
- Comprehensive home security
- Being able to connect more devices to your VPN
Is NordVPN Bandwith Unlimited?
Bandwidth limitations are usually the first concern when connecting multiple devices to a VPN. While a VPN always decreases internet speeds to some level, NordVPN does not intentionally throttle the bandwidth or internet speed of its users. It can therefore be argued that unlimited bandwidth is available.
Choosing a VPN server that is geographically nearby will definitely improve connectivity. It can also be worthwhile to change the aforementioned protocols, and see which protocol results in an optimal internet speed.
Test your download and upload speed using an online speed test tool. A free online tool like this will give you definitely performance data for your personal situation.
Does NordVPN Support iPhone And iPad?
A lot of Apple fans are dedicated users of a Mac, Macbook, iPhone, or iPad. Luckily, the NordVPN app is available for both iOS and MacOS. Simply install the application on your device to get started.
When connecting a VPN router, using the application on your PC, phone or tablet is optional. However, it can help you pick different servers based on your preference and needs. When going this route, I’d still recommend downloading the application to your device of choice.